A bacon press, also known as a cast iron steak weight press or cast iron bacon flattener, is a kitchen utensil designed to improve the cooking process and results of bacon. Typically made of heavy-duty materials like cast iron, a cast iron steak weight press is a flat, weighted tool that is placed on top of bacon as it cooks. Its purpose is to ensure even cooking, prevent curling, and promote crispiness by pressing the bacon flat against the cooking surface.
- However, iron frying pans do require some tender loving care
All in all, whether you choose a classic white enamel cookware set or a more vibrant purple, red, or pink option, an enamel cookware set is a versatile and stylish addition to any kitchen. With its durability, even heat distribution, and aesthetic appeal, investing in a set of enamel cookware can enhance your cooking experience for years to come.
When Should You Use a Saute Pan and When Should You Use a Skillet?
Frying Pan
With gentle yet firm pressure, press down on the bacon weight press to flatten the bacon against the cooking surface. This action helps prevent curling and encourages even cooking, resulting in crispy, perfectly cooked bacon.
A note on storage: Our favorite way to store frying pans is to hang them. But if you have a nonstick cookware set and you'd rather stack them, make sure to place a couple of paper towels or reusable pan separators between each so they don't scratch one another.
Enamel Potjie Pot: The enamel potjie pot, with its distinctive round belly and three legs, is a traditional South African cooking vessel that has gained popularity worldwide. Its enamel coating provides a durable and non-reactive cooking surface, making it suitable for a wide range of culinary creations.
Frypans and skillets have almost the same appearance and function in cooking. You are excused if you think they’re the same kitchen item. They are spherical and have sloping edges when compared to a sautéing pan. Let’s start with a couple more major distinctions.

What’s Cooking?
It’s important to note that frying pans should not be confused with cast iron skillets, which are a distinct type of cookware. To learn more about the differences between skillets and frying pans, check out our post dedicated to the topic.
The quick answer is, no. A skillet and frying pan are different because of each’s cooking surface and design. There is often confusion because the terms “skillet” and “frying pan” are often used interchangeably. And you can typically use either one of them for many cooking preparations, even if one is better suited for a specific cooking method. Plus, both of these style pans are often made from the same materials and come in similar sizes, so it's easy to understand why there can be confusion. While similar, a skillet is technically a bit deeper and has a slightly larger cooking surface area than a frying pan.
Contrary to what many expect, skillets are actually great for sautéing and stir-frying. The lighter weight makes them easy to shake, and their sloped sides helps redistribute the food back to the bottom of the pan. The wide opening also allows access to the cooking surface, making it easy to stir the ingredients.
When using a cast iron griddle on an electric stove, it's important to make sure the skillet is properly seasoned. Seasoning your cast iron griddle creates a non-stick surface and prevents rust. To season the cast iron griddle, coat the cooking surface with a thin layer of vegetable oil and heat on the stove until it starts to smoke. Repeat this process a few times and your cast iron griddle is ready to use.
The weight difference between frypans and skillets can vary depending on the size and material used to construct the cookware. As a general rule, frypans are the lighter option between the two.
6 – Carbon-Steel Frying Pans
Despite their premium quality, enameled cast iron cookware sets are surprisingly affordable, with cast iron cookware price varying based on factors such as brand reputation, set size, and included pieces. For those seeking to invest in their culinary endeavors, purchasing a cast iron cookware set represents a worthwhile and long-lasting investment.

